Arrive in Beijing, China's capital and cultural hub, where you are transferred to your luxurious hotel.

DAY 2

Beijing, China

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After a morning welcome briefing, participate in a tai chi lesson at the Temple of Heaven, a classic example of Ming architecture. After lunch, explore Tiananmen Square, and then walk in the footsteps of emperors in the Forbidden City, the seat of imperial power for centuries. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow guests.

DAY 3

Beijing, China

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The Great Wall, China

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Beijing, China

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Travel to the well-preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. Walk or ride a cable car to the top and view the stunning mountains. Return to Beijing, where you Ride Like a Local on a pedicab through a hutong — a neighborhood of small winding alleyways.

DAY 4

Beijing, China

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Air travel

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Xian, China

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Fly to Xi'an, made famous by Marco Polo. Once a vital stop on the Great Silk Road, Xi'an has become a melting pot of Asian and Middle Eastern influences. This afternoon, view the Great Mosque, a fascinating site blending classic Chinese temple architecture and central Asian embellishments. Visit the city's lively Muslim Quarter with its teeming markets.

DAY 5

Xian, China

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Terracotta Army, China

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Xian, China

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View the incomparable Terra Cotta Warriors, lost to the world for two millennia until accidentally rediscovered by a farmer. Explore them with an on-site specialist at your side. Then, enjoy a private Chef's Table experience in dumpling-making. Later, stroll the impressive ramparts of Xi'an's City Wall.

DAY 6

Xian, China

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Chengdu, China

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Travel to Chengdu by bullet train. Visit the People's Park, the city's largest public park, where you immerse yourself in local life and culture, watching area residents play traditional Chinese instruments, practice calligraphy, and engage in tai chi. Enjoy a tea demonstration at a local teahouse. This evening, savor local Sichuan specialties at a traditional hot pot dinner.

DAY 7

Chengdu, China

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Visit the Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center and observe giant pandas roaming in their natural habitat. Then, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to relax or explore Chengdu, a city renowned for its thriving music scene and nightlife.

DAY 8

Chengdu, China

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Air travel

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Lhasa, China

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Fly to Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet, one of the highest cities on earth at 12,000 feet and your home for the next three nights. Relax and acclimatize.

DAY 9

Lhasa, China

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Experience the spiritual heart of Tibet at the sacred Jokhang, a 1,300-year-old temple. Wander Lhasa's Barkhor Bazaar, and visit the Dropenling Tibet Handicraft Development Center. Continue to renowned Sera Monastery, and visit with a local family for firsthand insights into Tibetan culture.

DAY 10

Lhasa, China

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Discover the Dalai Lama's former summer residence at Norbulingka, surrounded by trees, ponds, gardens, and pavilions. Next, venture beyond the towering walls of the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, former winter residence of the Dalai Lama.

DAY 11

Lhasa, China

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Air travel

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Chongqing, China

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Fly to Chongqing to board your river cruiser for a three-night journey through the Three Gorges region.

DAY 12

Fuling, China, China

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Disembark in the small city of Fuling and enjoy a shore excursion, beginning with a visit to the White Crane Ridge Underwater Museum. Descend 150 feet underwater to see centuries-old rock carvings. Afterward, continue to a local market to gain insight into the region's rich culinary culture. This afternoon, learn about Chinese traditional medicine and reflexology. Tonight, attend the Captain's Reception.

DAY 13

Qutang Gorge, China

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Wu Gorge, China

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Badong, China

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Shennong Stream, China

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Badong, China

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Early this morning, 'Yangzi Explorer' navigates the Qutang and Wu Gorges before anchoring at Badong, where you board a ferry and travel up Shennong Stream. Disembark to board local "pea pod" boats poled by Tujia boatmen — members of a local minority culture famed for their river skills — and explore a scenic gorge and village. Tonight, gather for a "Taste of China" dinner experience.

DAY 14

Three Gorges Dam, China

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Yichang, China

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Air travel

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Shanghai, China

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This morning, disembark and fly to Shanghai, stopping briefly to photograph the Three Gorges Dam. On arrival in Shanghai, transfer to your elegant hotel located on the famous Bund.

DAY 15

Shanghai, China

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Zhujiajiao, China

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Shanghai, China

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Explore Shanghai, visiting Zhujiajiao, a water village evoking China's medieval past. Cruise its main canal in a sampan (wooden boat). This evening, attend a Shanghai Acrobatic show.

DAY 16

Shanghai, China

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Stroll the Bund, Shanghai's popular promenade. Then, wander the streets of Old Town and visit the 16th-century Yu Garden. Later, explore the M-50 Contemporary Art District, and gather for a festive farewell dinner.

DAY 17

Shanghai, China

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After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home or to depart for a post-tour extension.

About the Ship

What's Included

Included

All meals, complimentary soft drinks, coffee drinks, juices and bottled water while onboard, all shore excursions, services of a Tour Director and arrival and departure transfers.

Not Included

A&K Guest Protection Program, gratuities for the Tour Director and beverages other than those noted above.

About Us

With more than 50 years of luxury travel expertise backed by 52 local offices around the globe, A&K USA offers unforgettable experiences on all seven continents. From the industry's best small-group journeys and luxury expedition cruises to privately guided tailor-made journeys, they pride themselves on finding the perfect fit for the world's most discerning clients. The company's signature Insider Access experiences connect travelers to the people and culture of each destination.

Insider Tip

Terms & Conditions

Cancellation policy:Cancellation policies are not the same for every product and you should check with A&K at the time of booking. In general, cancellations received by A&K 90 days or more prior to departure will be subject to a $500 per person/per tour cancellation fee. Cancellations received less than 90 days prior to departure will be subject to the following forfeit of tour costs: 89-60 days – 20% of tour cost; 59-30 – 50% of tour cost; 29-0 days – 100% of tour cost. A 100% cancellation charge applies to internal air cancelled less than 90 days prior to departure, where applicable. For some tours, permit costs may not be refundable.

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